What Is Hantavirus? The Rare Infection Behind the Tragedy of Betsy and Gene Hackman’s Deaths

The recent passing of Betsy Arakawa Hackman, wife of legendary actor Gene Hackman, has brought renewed attention to hantavirus, a rare and potentially fatal disease. Betsy, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a condition caused by exposure to rodent droppings. Authorities discovered her and Gene Hackman, who passed away a week later from unrelated causes, in their Santa Fe home on February 26. But what is hantavirus? We asked a healthcare expert how it spreads and ways you can reduce your risk of infection. 

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus refers to a group of viruses that can cause severe respiratory illness in humans. The most serious form, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, is a rare but often deadly condition that leads to flu-like symptoms and lung complications. It was first recognized in the United States in 1993 and has since been reported in various regions in North America, primarily in rural areas where rodent populations thrive.

“Hantaviruses are naturally found primarily in rodents,” explains Michael Kossove, Professor Emeritus and Adjunct Professor of Microbiology at Touro University School of Health Sciences. “There are several different types of Hantavirus, as each rodent carries one Hantavirus species.” 

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How is hantavirus transmitted?

Unlike many viruses that spread from person to person, hantavirus is contracted primarily through exposure to infected rodent droppings, urine or saliva. The virus becomes airborne when these substances dry and break into tiny particles that can be inhaled. 

“In humans, hantaviruses cause two diseases: hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, the one that killed Betsy Hackman,” notes Kossove. “The deer mouse is linked to the disease in the U.S. One contracts the disease by inhaling urine or fecally contaminated dust containing the virus.” These particles can then enter the lungs and bloodstream. “You can also get sick from a scratch or bite from an infected rodent,” adds Kossove. 

Common sources of exposure include:

• Cleaning or sweeping areas where rodents have nested
• Entering sheds, barns or cabins that have been infested
• Direct contact with rodent urine or feces

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Symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome

HPS typically begins with flu-like symptoms, making them easy to overlook. “Symptoms occur one to eight weeks after exposure,” says Kossove. Early symptoms include:

• Fever and chills
• Muscle aches (especially in the back and legs)
• Fatigue
• Headaches and dizziness
• Nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain

As the disease progresses, it can cause severe respiratory distress. After flu-like symptoms, a person enters the “cardiopulmonary phase, including elevated and irregular heart rate, cardiogenic shock and pulmonary vascular leakage.” This can cause coughing, shortness of breath and fluid buildup in the lungs. In severe cases, Kossove says hantavirus can lead to respiratory failure and death.

A hantavirus infection can be fatal 

While hantavirus is rare, it has a high mortality rate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 36 percent of those diagnosed with HPS do not survive. Because symptoms initially resemble the flu, many cases go undiagnosed until they become severe. If you experience respiratory distress after potential exposure to rodents, seek medical attention immediately.

Even if caught in time, Kossove notes that the recovery phase “could take months, but breathing difficulties could remain for years.” Patients may be put on a breathing tube or given fluids for supportive care. 

How to reduce your risk of contracting the virus 

Since there is no specific treatment or cure for hantavirus, prevention is key. “People should avoid contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva and nesting materials,” Kossove advises. “If mice or rats are in or around your home, it’s important to clean up after them safely. Never use a vacuum to do so.”

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If you own an area like a garage or shed that you haven’t opened in a long time, let it air out before entering. “Use a mask when going in, and a fine water spray to get the dust out of the air,” says Kossove. 

Above all, it’s best to seek professional help. “Rodent control is the primary strategy for preventing Hantavirus. Have a professional exterminator clean your home as soon as possible,” adds Kossove. 

While hantavirus is uncommon, taking preventive measures can significantly lower the risk of infection. If you live in, work in or visit areas where rodents are prevalent, taking precautions can help keep you and your loved ones safe.